Wildfires around Los Angeles intensified on Wednesday, spreading to the Hollywood Hills after devastating other areas, killing at least five people, destroying hundreds of homes, and straining firefighting efforts and water supplies.
Over 100,000 people were ordered to evacuate as powerful, dry winds fueled the fires, which have scorched thousands of acres since Tuesday. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, cutting short an official trip to Ghana, described the situation as a "firestorm" and called it a major crisis.
A new wildfire, named the Sunset Fire, erupted in the Hollywood Hills on Wednesday evening, forcing additional evacuations. This raised the total number of active wildfires in Los Angeles County to at least six, with four still completely uncontained, according to officials.
The Sunset Fire burned approximately 50 acres (20 hectares) near iconic areas such as Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame. Helicopter crews and ground teams worked to slow its advance. The fire posed a threat to landmarks like the Hollywood sign and Griffith Observatory but would need to cross the 101 Freeway to reach them.
Evacuation orders were issued for residents in an area bordered by Hollywood Boulevard, Mulholland Drive, the 101 Freeway, and Laurel Canyon Boulevard. This includes notable sites such as the Dolby Theater, where the Oscars are held. Fire-related disruptions have already delayed next week's Oscar nomination announcements by two days.
In Studio City, a structure fire destroyed two homes and spread to nearby brush. Firefighters extinguished the blaze without any injuries reported. Despite its smaller size, the Sunset Fire underscores the growing threat to Los Angeles as multiple wildfires continue to rage.
